Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
SMITH, Steve "Gomer"
SMITH, Steve "Gomer." (Bankston, IA, Apr, 27, 1952--Dubuque, IA, Apr. 25, 2017) The son of Joseph and Kathleen "Kay" Smith of Bankston Iowa, Steve graduated from St. Joseph's High School in Farley, Iowa in 1970. He graduated from LORAS COLLEGE in 1974. (1)
Upon graduation, Steve and his brother Joe started GOMER'S in January, 1976 on University Avenue. The tri-level bar featured a fully-furnished game room and a mural of a 1930s bathing beauty contest. (2) In 1977 Steve started Pickle Barrel Subs. Both the bar and sub shops became successful and he was able to begin commercial and residential real estate ventures in Dubuque.
Steve was a member of the Clarke/Loras Singers and toured all over Europe with the group. He also served many years on the board of directors of East Dubuque Savings Bank. He was a member of DUBUQUE SHOOTING SOCIETY 660 Club where he spent many Thursday nights with friends who he called his "Financial Advisors." He was also a member of Thunder Hills Country Club where he enjoyed Friday night dinners and watching his grandchildren swim at the pool.
He frequently contributed to many charities around Dubuque never asking for his name to be attached to any donation. He never sought praise, accolades or awards. He was humble, kind and good-natured.
In 2018 Steve was given the miracle of life through an organ donation from Sarah Jochum, daughter of Thomas J. JOCHUM and Pam JOCHUM. He became a strong advocate for organ and tissue donation causes. (3)
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Source:
1. Obituary, Dubuque Today by DUBUQUE ADVERTISER (THE), Online: http://www.dubuquetoday.com/obituaries.cfm
2. Day, Mike, "Research Reveals Odd Occurrences in Late '70s," Telegraph Herald, December 19, 2021, p. 10A
3. Obituary